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The distinction between the primary and the secondary emotions is paralleled by two brain
pathways: a fast pathway and a slow pathway (Damasio, 2000; LeDoux, 2000; Ochsner, Bunge,
Gross, & Gabrielli, 2002). [4] The thalamus acts as the major gatekeeper in this process (Figure
10.3 "Slow and Fast Emotional Pathways"). Our response to the basic emotion of fear, for
instance, is primarily determined by the fast pathway through the limbic system. When a car
pulls out in front of us on the highway, the thalamus activates and sends an immediate message
to the amygdala. We quickly move our foot to the brake pedal. Secondary emotions are more
determined by the slow pathway through the frontal lobes in the cortex. When we stew in
jealousy over the loss of a partner to a rival or recollect on our win in the big tennis match, the
process is more complex. Information moves from the thalamus to the frontal lobes for cognitive
analysis and integration, and then from there to the amygdala. We experience the arousal of
emotion, but it is accompanied by a more complex cognitive appraisal, producing more refined
emotions and behavioral responses.
Figure 10.3 Slow and Fast Emotional Pathways
There are two emotional pathways in the brain (one slow and one fast), both of which are controlled by the
thalamus.